Master’s Program in Communication

Returning Graduate Students

2018-2019

Abbie Paul

(Spring 2015 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Interpersonal Communication, Social Emotional

Learning in Education

Biography: I earned my Bachelor of Science Degree in Speech

Communication and Mass Communication from Illinois State University in

December 1990. I am returning to ISU after being a stay-at-home mom,

raising 3 children and giving my education away for free as a volunteer for

over 18 years. I worked in the Sales and Marketing field after college but

decided to forego a career and stay home when I had my second child. I

continued to use my education to volunteer in my church, my kids’ schools

and my community. Over the years, I have created print materials for two church capital campaigns, co-chaired

a school auction, designed auction books, led small groups and Sunday school classes, chaired a high school

after prom committee, served on numerous school committees, and coached a successful junior high

cheerleading team for 10 years. In 2013, I joined The Peaceful Schools Committee to pursue my desire to work

on an anti-bullying campaign in our schools. This passion comes from experiencing 3 years of extensive

bullying with my middle daughter. I cannot begin to describe the emotion, the damage and the challenges this

experience had on my family. Staying the course and seeing my daughter through this terrible time, celebrating

her survival and her promising future led me to the decision to use our story to help others. Last Spring, I

purchased the Kind Club curriculum through The Kind Campaign and experimented with it at the Junior High

Level at Trinity Lutheran School. In 8 weeks, I was able to make a noticeable change in the classroom

environment as well as reach girls in the community with this remarkable program. It is my hope that I can

spread the word to be kind, stop bullying in our schools and make a difference in our community. These hopes

and desires inspire me to further my education and gain better credibility for working in this area. I believe

working on my Masters in Communication will give me this credibility and more. I am hoping to study

specifically interpersonal and nonverbal communication habits with teenagers, the effects of social media on

this communication but also the concept of Social Emotional Learning and how it should be implemented in our

education system. My ultimate goal would be to share my experience, my passion and my knowledge through

teaching, workshops and speaking engagements in my community, my state and maybe even my country.

Afshana Hoque

(Spring 2017 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Inter-generational Communication, Ageism,

Human Aging, Intercultural Communication, Public-Relations,

Branding & Crisis Management

Biography: Hello Redbirds! I am from the exotic land of Assam,

located in Northeast India. Assam is known for its fine tea and

wildlife. Brought up in a Catholic boarding school, the majority of my

childhood was spent in the beautiful hill station of Shillong,

Meghalaya. I came to ISU in the Spring of 2017 and have been loving

every bit of this journey. My undergrad is in Business Communication

and I also have a Post-Graduate Diploma in Broadcasting and Digital Journalism. I have a total of five

years of industry exposure and have worked as a newscaster and producer in two of the leading regional

news channels in Assam. I have served as the announcer for “The 12th South Asian Games 2016” and

“The AFC Asian Cup UAE 2019” qualifiers play-off. I love being part of campus activities and have been

enjoying my role as an international student ambassador for ISU since last year. My passion for life is to

explore and connect with the different cultures and communities of the world. I am a firm believer that the

world we live in, is nothing but the connections that we share among us. It is connections that have the

power to bind people from different walks of life. Having a journalism background, I always dreamt of

doing something for the society. During my journey as an ISU graduate, I found an area that I care deeply

for. I wish to use scholarly research to reduce inter-generational conflicts and avoid age discrimination in

modern workplaces. I wish to use my passion for communication in a constructive manner. I am a big

Shah Rukh Khan fan, and cooking and traveling are my favorite things. Life as a graduate student can get

tough sometimes, so whenever I am stressed out, I hit the kitchen, it’s the best stress-buster for me! I also

enjoy surfing the Internet and singing. I am a dreamer and I am never afraid to dream big! I earnestly

believe that visualizing “what you can be” is the basic requirement to actually “be” that someone someday!

Allison “Ali” Seys (Spring 2017 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Social Media Influence & Analytics, Public Relations,

Marketing Communications

Biography: I graduated from Illinois State University with a B.S. in Public

Relations in May 2015. I loved Bloomington-Normal so much; I decided to

stay and work as the Marketing and Communication Manager at United Way

of McLean County. I worked there for a year and a half and recently left so I

could pursue my Master’s Degree full-time. At United Way, I handled all

aspects of communication including direct mail, advertisements, website

management, and social media. I also consult for local organizations such as The Michael Collins

Foundation, Central Illinois Life Goes On, and Eversight Illinois. During my undergrad, I was

extremely involved in PRSSA and served as vice president my senior year. As an undergrad and

during my time at United Way, I was able to work with ISU’s SMACC Lab and can’t wait to utilize it

as a learning tool! Maybe it can help manage my boyfriend and I’s dog’s Instagram account – she has

over 1,000 followers (I wish that was a joke). Outside of the classroom and office, I enjoy playing on

rec. soccer and volleyball leagues, traveling, finding the latest Netflix series to binge-watch, and

cheering on the Cardinals. I also enjoy escaping to my family’s farm every now and then (I minored

in agriculture at ISU, too!). I’m excited to continue my journey as a Redbird, and use and grow my

skills as a Graduate Assistant in Stewardship and Donor Relations at ISU!

Austin Duncan (Spring 2017 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Sports Communication, Corporate Communication

Biography: Hello! My name is Austin Duncan, I am 22 years old, and I

graduated from Illinois State University in May of 2016 majoring in Mass Media

with a focus in Radio. I am from a faraway land you probably have not heard of,

Bloomington, Illinois. Throughout my undergraduate schooling I worked at

WJBC radio for three years at as a sports writer and producer. I also worked and

managed at Avanti’s Italian Restaurant from 2010-2016. (No, I cannot get you

free food.) Following graduation, I left both positions and began my “big boy

job” working at PNC Bank in Bloomington. After about four months of banking I realized I needed a

change, which is where my journey to graduate school began. I am your classic townie who just never

left. I graduated from Bloomington High School in 2012. I have great pride in Bloomington-Normal

and Illinois State. Being here my whole life, I began attending ISU football and basketball games

when I was two years old. I can probably tell you more about Illinois State football and especially

basketball than anyone you’ll meet at ISU. I am a part of a Redbird Legacy with my mother and three

older sisters all holding degrees from Illinois State. I like to think of myself as a very well rounded

person. I can talk about sports, comedy, movies, television, or really anything. Except politics. I do

not talk politics. I look forward to working with many of you as we embark on our collective journey

towards a Master’s Degree. Let’s get started!

Alyssa Hernandez (Fall 2017 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Health Communication, Family Communication,

Interpersonal Communication,

Biography: Hello! My name is Alyssa Hernandez. I graduated in 2017

from Augustana College where I double majored in public health and

communication. I had the time of my life at Augie and was motivated to

continue my education at ISU. In the realm of comm I study health,

interpersonal, and family communication. I love teaching beyond words

and am grateful to ISU for allowing me to be a GTA. In addition to

teaching and being a peer mentor, I am one of two social chairs for the good old GSA. In my spare

time I worship Queen Cardi B, dream about the day I'll own a pet bird, and try to cope with the fact

that Stranger Things isn't releasing season three until NEXT summer. My world revolves around my

dog Maizy who is a mere five pounds! (Or six when she's a little chubby.) I believe that sums it up.

I'm looking forward to another great year at ISU!

Ashley Morrison-Sain (Fall 2017 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Organizational & Leadership Communication,

Interpersonal Communication, Intercultural Communication

Biography: This past May, I graduated from Illinois State

University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Organizational & Leadership

Communication. During my time as an undergraduate student, I

aided students as a Resident Assistant for three years, and

participated in a number of Registered Student Organizations.

(Some of which, I am still a member of today.) A lot of my concerns

and interests revolve around diversity and inclusion. I believe that the continual pursuit of these two

things fulfills my desire to be a life-long learner. I enjoy building meaningful relationships with

others, and I am excited to see what new relationships will form during my time as a graduate student

and a Graduate Teaching Assistant. When I’m not in class, I love to spend time with my family and

friends, read, watch movies, and serve others. I am really looking forward to collaborating, learning,

and growing with my soon-to-be students, cohort, and faculty.

Brianne Richards (Fall 2017 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Intercultural Communication,

Organizational Communication, Social Change,

Social Media

Biography: Hello! My name is Mika Richards. During

my first two years of college, I attended IWCC, then

transferred to Illinois State, where I received my BA in

Organizational and Leadership Communication. I have

been a collegiate athlete all four years. My team at

IWCC earned the title of National Champions in 2013.

In 2016, my team at ISU became Missouri Valley Champions and advanced to the second round in the

NCAA Tournament. During my time at ISU, I realized that I had a passion for intercultural

communication. Ihave been a solo traveler since the age of 16, where I nannied in Okinawa, Japan.

However, it wasn’t until I studied abroad in France through ISU’s partnership with CEA Study Abroad,

that I felt a huge desire to learn about other cultures, and how they differ from my own. After my

incredible experience studying abroad, I started interning for CEA and became an Insider. As an Insider, I

use social media to outreach to prospective students who wish to study abroad. I am continuing this Insider

position, though now I am training other Insiders. The biggest lesson that I have learned from traveling is

that diversity is a necessary component of everyday life. The word different has been associated to

negative feelings. I would like to change that. I believe that the media makes the outside world seem more

dangerous than the one we live in. My hypothesis was confirmed this summer of 2017 when I traveled to

the Middle East, more specifically, Lebanon. I have been studying French for the last couple of years and

was a CEA ambassador in Paris this last summer (2018). My hobbies include planning backpacking

adventures, scuba diving, and whatever else the world has to offer. I look forward to working with you!

Cassie McNeill (Fall 2017 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Intercultural Communication, Social

Media, Public Relations

Biography: Hi! I’m Cassie McNeill, I’m from New

York City and have moved around my entire life. I

graduated this May of 2017 with a public relations

degree at Illinois State University. ISU is the only place

that I have lived longer than two years, which means

everything to me. ISU is truly my home and I am so

thankful to be continuing my education career here, at

home. Moving around my entire life I was always the new kid in town and consistently adapting to new

environments. Needless to say, my communication skills and extrovert personality were always my go to

when making new friends and getting acquainted into my new environment. I had to constantly rely on my

ability to see the world in a different way. In terms, I had to embrace the uncomfortable feeling of being

new to the environment and step out of my comfort zone by getting to know others from all walks of life.

As a result, I became more cultured, understanding, empathetic and overall more adjusted to the reality of

life, that we are all different. These past experiences sparked my interest of wanting to learn more about

the way communication transcends across cultures and go to graduate school to study Communication. I

am mesmerized by the power of conversation and the core of sharing/exchanging information across a

wide platform of different lifestyles, cultures and social groups. So now that you know my backstory and

why I am here, let’s get personal! I am a music fanatic as well as a complete nerd over YouTube, anything

that has to do with cartoons and of course, video games. I like to think I am an old soul but I am also

addicted to my laptop and Iphone. I believe every issue can be worked out through conversation and time.

I think patience and acceptance are the key characteristics to growing as a person. I’m excited to begin this

new chapter in my life and to meet my new cohort family!

Christopher McDermott (Fall 2016 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Leadership Communication, Health

Communication

Biography: Hello!! I graduated from Illinois State

University in December of 2015, majoring in Mass

Media focusing in Radio. I am a native of the town

of Normal. Before starting college, I served four

years in the US Navy. Looking back, I never

intended on going to college in the first place, let

alone pursue a Master’s degree but persuasion is a powerful thing in the School of Communication.

On a more personal note (in 500 words or less): I enjoy long walks on the beach, if I say I’m from

Illinois and you automatically assume it’s Chicago, I cringe. If I say I’ll be there at 10, I’ll be there

around 9:45. I am very blunt and down to earth. I am not politically correct, but I am respectful. Other

than that, my life experiences from around the world whilst serving in the Military have taught me

how to be a human being and not just a robot which is why I am very good communicating with

people. I do not bow to anyone, or express allegiance to any political faction. I believe the world

would be a much better place if people listened and showed overall consideration for each

circumstance in which they are a part of. I am a pessimist at heart because it keeps me on my toes. I

prepare for every possible outcome. I have a great sense of humor, and jokes are jokes when they are

jokes and jokes are funny and people should not be offended by jokes, when those said jokes are told.

I’m 26 years old and this looks like the worst possible dating profile one could make, but then again, I

hate popular culture in the first place so it works out. I cannot wait to meet each one of you and get to

know your life stories!! I am very excited to begin this chapter of my career.

Derek Drew (Fall 2017 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Social Media, Instructional Communication

Biography: Greetings! My name is Derek Drew and I am from

Aurora, Illinois. I will be entering into my first year as a graduate

student here at Illinois State University in the Communication

program. I matriculated from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

with my Bachelor degree in Spanish with a Pre-Law minor. I also am a

volunteer assistant coach for the Track and Field Team at ISU. I love

Track & Field and Basketball. Other hobbies include being in nature,

meditation, and trying new things. I plan to use what I learn in the Communication program to be the

best coach, teacher, and mentor possible to my athletes and peers.

Dawn Davis (Fall 2017 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Health Communication, Leadership and

Organizational Communication, Communicative aspects

surrounding holistic healthcare and functional medicine, nutrition,

health coaching, and awareness education

Biography: Greetings students, faculty, and staff! First, I am excited to

be part of the 2017 SoC Fall Cohort, having new opportunities to learn,

grow, and collaborate, while pursuing a mid-life career change with a

focus on health communication. In 2010, I forayed into the health sector

after navigating the medical maize during my recovery from a personal

health crisis. While living abroad in Italy, I took a Science of Food, Health,

and Wellness course, igniting a passion and mission within me. I obtained my Holistic Health Coaching

certification, and in 2012 began practicing nutritional and lifestyle coaching. Along the way, I worked as a

circuit coach and instructed classes for Curves on Towanda, substitute taught at Parkside Junior High, and

facilitated a wellness class for the Parkside staff. Most recently, I started an assistantship with ISU’s Health

Promotion and Wellness in the role of Communication and Marketing focusing on prevention and the Seven

program. I bring to the program a B.A. in Interior Architectural Design, from the Academy of Art University in

San Francisco, CA, with a comprehensive professional background in client services, including

account/project/program management, coordination, team management, training, and sales. My client

experience encompasses corporate, government, higher education, non-profit, and healthcare sectors, providing

a diversified perspective. I successfully managed small to large scale multimillion dollar projects with clients

such as: Oracle, Charles Schwab, Warner Brothers, Walt Disney Imagineering, Screen Actors Guild, Autodesk,

National Defense Council, County of Ulster, and Vassar College. I worked within the non-profit sector

administering a county-wide Family Development program with Cornell University, providing research and

data demonstrating the program’s development and effectiveness. As a result, the program converted from a

grant-based status to a New York state budget line. My personal future goals are to research health

communication, creating health awareness and inspiration through the educational vehicles of writing and

teaching. I strongly believe in the ripple effect where developing people’s awareness reaches out to others by

natural extension. With this, I am ready to place my head, heart, and hands to work in the SoC graduate

program. Aside from my professional endeavors, I enjoy spending time with my husband, daughter and friends,

watching films, reading, hiking, biking, kayaking, walking, yoga, learning tennis, cooking and baking,

entertaining, experiencing new adventures, and interweaving spirituality throughout my day, which keeps me

grounded and grateful in the wake of life. I’m not sure to what degree these activities will be able to occur while

my brain is growing in ways it never has before. However, I am sure a growing brain is a happy brain!

Ekaterina Rybakova (Fall 2017 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Mass Media, Public Relations, SMM,

Interpersonal Communication

Biography: Hello! My name is Ekaterina but you can call me

Kate. Last year I graduated from Moscow State Linguistic

University with my B.A. degree in journalism. During my

undergraduate education I had several internships in various media

outlets, so I gained a decent amount of experience in journalism. I

have been working for a Russian TV channel for a long period of

time and covered lots of cultural and socio-political issues in my reports. However, I realized that I

really want to gain some more knowledge of international social, political and cultural processes. As

the USA is one the world’s major decision makers, I believe that doing my Master’s here will help me

to become a qualified media specialist. I really hope that my academic background will help me to

succeed in the Communication program at ISU and I will be able to become a well-trained

international specialist that can contribute to establishing cooperation across borders. Can’t wait to

meet all of my professors and fellow students and begin my journey as a Redbird!

Emily Raschke (Fall 2017 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Social Media Influence & Analytics, Public

Relations

Biography: I graduated from Illinois State University with a B.S.

in Public Relations in May 2017. During my time as an undergrad

student I was able to explore my love for social media and

analytics through work in the SMACC Lab at Illinois State. In my

last year of undergrad I was heavily involved in the Theta Eta

Chapter of Lambda Pi Eta Communication Honors Fraternity and

am currently serving as the media and recruitment chair. Since graduation I have been using my love

for social media to help community organizations near my hometown increase engagement and their

online presence. I am so happy and grateful to be spending more time at Illinois State University and

in the amazing cities of Bloomington and Normal. I am a coffee lover and nerd culture enthusiast.

When I am not in Fell Hall, I enjoy classic sitcoms, cooking, and spending time with my two lovely

nieces. I am excited to start working with everyone and can’t wait to bring my love of

Communication to the incoming class!

Erica Efigenio (Fall 2017 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Communication Education, Rhetoric, Mass Media,

Mass Media Effects, Public Relations, Mental Health

Biography: Born and raised in the temperate state of California, I am

often questioned as to what possessed me to trade in my year round

sunshine for ice storms. My facetious answer was, I did not know you

could not wear a t-shirt well through November because frostbite is

real. My serious response is, my passion for public speaking, after

being on a collegiate speech team for two years, as well as the strong

communication program at ISU made moving halfway across the country a worthwhile adventure.

Obtaining my B.S. in Organizational and Leadership Communication at Illinois State University and

having the opportunity to return to achieve my master's degree is a privilege I am exceedingly

delighted about. Academically, I am interested in investigating the missing links in education that

facilitate a student's transition from a high school or a junior college lifestyle to a university lifestyle

and how that transition impacts them personally as well as scholastically. I aim to shed light on any

improvements that can be made to ensure the success of new students, which could be registered in

their personal and academic lives. Personally, I enjoy maintaining an active lifestyle, which includes

rock climbing, yoga, cycling and kickboxing. In my free time I can be found writing, painting,

drawing, taking photos, socializing with friends or sprawled out on the couch watching Doctor Who. I

look forward to getting know everyone and the time I have in this program!

Franklin Kimmell (Fall 2017 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Interpersonal Communication, Media Studies,

Intercultural Communication

Biography: I graduated from Illinois College in 2016, and while there I

was a double major in Communication and Rhetorical and International

Political Studies with a French minor. While at Illinois College I was

involved with many student organizations including The Coalition for

Ethnic Awareness, OXFAM, Amnesty International, Rotaract, SAGE

(Students for Sexual and Gender Equality), and the Illinois College

Feminists. I enjoyed organizing Illinois College’s annual International Day of Peace, Diversity Week,

and Walk for Water. I am currently a Peer Mentor for the COM 110 program and the vice president

for the Graduate Student Association. Apart from this I find that my admiration and sincere love for

Chelsea Handler grows daily, I would love to talk with you about your favorite shows on Netflix, and

I am always ready to go to Taco Bell.

Gilbert Kipkoech (Fall 2017 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Political Communication, Intercultural

Communication, Public Relations

Biography: Hello! My name is Gilbert Kipkoech and I come

from Kenya, the hub of all East African cultures. My journey

toward a master’s degree in communication has been

demanding while enriching as well. Aristotle argues that

“man is by nature a political animal”, this sums up my

interest in political communication with also a cognate

interest in communication within the modern multicultural word we live. Serving the ISU student

community as a Graduate Teaching Assistant has been a God-given opportunity. It’s been gratifying

to interact with diverse students and colleagues with amazing skills, talents, and attitudes. The beauty

of diversity! Outside of class and work, soccer and athletics takes most of this time. Maybe it’s

because I come from a powerhouse in world athletics!! I also enjoy watching movies. I am excited as

I embark on the last stretch of my journey toward a master’s degree in communication!

Hannah Mesouani (Spring 2016 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Intercultural Communications, Representations of Gender

and Race in the Media

Biography: I was born and raised in Tangier, Morocco by my Moroccan

father and Scottish mother who sent me to a tiny, private American school--

so it's no surprise that intercultural communication has always been a huge

part of my life. Growing up as an outsider in my own country has afforded

me the distance to view media representations of culture, race and gender

with a discerning eye. I received my B.A. in both Film Studies and Media &

Communication from Muhlenberg College in Allentown, PA .I focused on the social construct of

gender roles in both film and reality TV shows that both celebrate and shame what it is to be a woman

of color in America. I have served on the board of one of Pennsylvania's largest LGBTQ activist

organizations for 8 years and I approach all media as an activist and aspiring educator. I have taught

English and assistant-taught Communications classes and continue to work in Higher Ed as an

Assistant Residence Hall Coordinator here at ISU. I hope to continue to learn and grow and serve

those communities who are viewed as outsiders by mainstream American media. I love spending my

free time attempting gluten-free baking, watching sci-fi and Food Network with my husband and

playing with my occasionally evil cat.

Hannah Trew (Fall 2017 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Intercultural Communication, Interpersonal

Communication, Visual Communication, Documentary

Production, LGBTQ Studies

Biography: Hey y’all! I’m Hannah. I graduated from Ohio

University in 2017 with a B.S. in Communication Studies and a

minor in Digital Storytelling and Screenwriting. Once I came to

ISU, I fell in love with teaching and decided to sell my soul to

academia. I enjoy exploring the visibility, invisibility, and

representation of the Queer community in various facets of society. Last year, I had the honor of

presenting a study exploring the spaces and places Queer individuals felt both comfortable and

uncomfortable expressing their queer identities at the National Communication Association

Conference (NCA). Because I’m a nerd, I’ll be heading back to NCA this year to present research

discussing the censorship of LGBTQ content on YouTube. More recently, I started exploring how

minority groups express themselves and heal utilizing Slam Poetry (insert snaps), which I decided to

further explore in my thesis. When I’m not in Fell Hall - let’s be honest, when am I not in Fell? - you

can normally find me reading on the quad, writing poetry (insert more snaps), or going on adventures.

I am a crazy cat lady who will most likely show you too many photos of my cat (His name is Deacon

by the way). I am a total movie buff, comic book nerd, and lover of a good cup of coffee. I started

working at the local Boys and Girls Club this year which has been a great opportunity for me to share

my love of video production with teenagers! But mostly we just mix Diet Coke and Mentos to cause

explosions, so am I teaching them or are they teaching me? I’m excited to be teaching both COM 110

and COM 123 this Fall. I am eager for this year to start and look forward to meeting and learning

from you all!

Isaac Ruiz (Fall 2017 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Organizational Communication,

Mass Communication, Film

Biography: Hey everybody! My name is Isaac

and I was born and raised in Southern California!

Needless to say, I can imagine this Illinois

weather will be a little rough. I have had a fairly

unique education thus far, being homeschooled

from K-12 and never entering a public school

until college! I did community college for 2 years at Mt. SAC then transferred to UC Berkeley where

I got my degree in English. I fell in love with communication through joining Forensics in college and

competing in all genres of performance. Through it, I learned just how vital communication studies is

and knew I wanted to pursue it academically. I am particularly interested in Mass Media and

Marketing, and I am also very interested in how film plays a role in communication. My aspiration is

to become a full-time professor and Forensics coach, but I’m keeping my options wide open at this

point! When I’m not doing school, I have many other interests. I’m a super film nerd: the kind that’s

seen almost every Oscar-nominated movie at the end of the year and wastes way too much money

going to the theater. I also love reading books (my not-so-guilty pleasure is YA fiction), lifting

weights, playing strategy board games (hit me up if you like any), watching boxing and football, and

drinking gratuitous amounts of coffee. I also eat way too much (Taco Bell is life), love clothes, and

am always down for an adventure! Excited to meet and hang with all of you this year!

Jacqui Backer (Fall 2016 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Computer-Mediated Communication, Social

Media, Interpersonal Communication

Biography: I believe a person never truly stops learning, and that

knowledge is something to be shared with others. This is one of the

many reasons why I have chosen to pursue a master’s degree in

communication at ISU. In May 2016, I graduated from Concordia

College with my Bachelor of Arts in communication honors and a

minor in business. After completing my first undergraduate

research project in communication and presenting it at CSCA as a sophomore, I was hooked. My

curiosity to learn more took over, and I completed and presented two other research projects during

my time as an undergraduate student. I also had the opportunity to work in the Oral Communication

Center at Concordia where I assisted freshmen students in preparing speeches for their basic speech

course. This only solidified my desire to further my education as I found I not only love research, but

also love teaching and mentoring others. Outside of academics my hobbies include reading,

photography, hanging out with friends, listening to music, and cooking.

Jessa Hendricker (Fall 2017 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Interpersonal Communication, Education, Communication

Theory, Leadership Training & Development, Public Relations

Biography: Hello, everyone! My name is Jessa Hendricker. I was born and

raised in Clinton, Illinois, and actually live there now. I did leave for my

undergrad at Olivet Nazarene University in Bourbonnais, Illinois, where I

received a B.S. in Communication Studies with a concentration in Corporate

Communication and a minor in Theatre in May 2017. During my time at

Olivet, I served as a Teaching Assistant for our basic public speaking course,

our interpersonal communication class, and for our public relations writing class. I absolutely loved

this role because I got to work with a fantastic mentor who taught me more than just how to teach.

Besides being a teaching assistant, I managed a full course load each semester, working a job (or two

or three), staying actively involved in Orpheus Choir, and working on any theatrical production I

could be a part of! My time at Olivet truly shaped me into the communicator and person that I am

today. I am the daughter of two teachers, so I guess the teaching bug bit me, too! Last year, I also

taught preschool dance classes. It was so fun getting to pour into the lives of twenty young three- to

six- year olds! I am so excited (and nervous) to serve as a Graduate Teaching Assistant this fall! I

believe that a good classroom environment and an open platform for relationships is incredibly

important to help impact a student’s education. If I’m not in class, teaching my own class, grading

papers, or doing other jobs, you can find probably find me hanging out with friends at Fusion Brew

(or other local coffee shops) or working on a production at Community Players Theatre. I firmly

believe that everyone needs a creative outlet in their lives - mine just happens to be the theatre! I hope

to eventually become a Communication and/or Theatre professor in order to share with my biggest

passions with others. I am so very excited to see how students’ lives are impacted this year; I'm

excited to meet all of you, too! When I was little, I said my “dream schools” were born Olivet and

ISU because they were each one of my parent’s alma maters. How cool is it that my dreams actually

came true! Go Redbirds!

Jessica Wozniak (Fall 2017 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Public Relations, Intercultural Communication, Social Justice,

Media Literacy

Biography: I'm a 2011 graduate of Illinois State's English program, having

focused in publishing studies, with minors in Spanish and International

Studies. Upon graduation I served as Fulbright English Teaching Assistant in

Montenegro, teaching oral and written communications to third- and fourth-

year university students. Following that I moved to Bucharest, Romania,

where I worked as an English teacher in public, private and language schools,

with students ages three to adult. In summer 2016 I returned to Chicago and, for the past year and a

half I have been working at a small public relations agency just outside Chicago. I work with

consumer, nonprofit and literary clients doing media relations, writing, marketing, and more. Since

fall 2017 I have been a part-time student in the School of Communication, while continuing to work

full time. In my free time I enjoy doing yoga, riding horses, reading, and cooking.

Julia Gramont (Fall 2017 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Social Media Marketing, Mass Communication, Public

Relations

Biography: I graduated from Illinois State University in the Spring of 2017

with a B.S. in Mass Media - Media Management, Promotion, and Sales. I am the

Graduate Assistant of Alumni Engagement where I plan student and alumni

events, our largest event being ISU’s Homecoming. Through my GA position, I

lead the Student Alumni Council, a student organization that plans campus

events and continues ISU traditions. I am the current President of the

Association for Women in Communications student chapter, a professional development organization.

I also serve on the AWC Bloomington-Normal Professional Chapter executive board. I am very

involved with ISU and our community, but I am sure you are curious about my favorite organization.

Hands down, The School of Communication Graduate Student Association. I am a co-social chair and

self-proclaimed hype woman for our lovely GSA. Joining GSA would be in everyone’s best interest.

Speaking of interests, mine include black coffee and other people’s dogs. My favorite shows are The

Walking Dead, Game of Thrones, Big Brother, Black Mirror, and American Horror Story. I also

spend a lot of time on the water – fishing, kayaking, boating, swimming and competitive water polo.

Kameron Williams (Fall 2017 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Intercultural Communication, Social Media Influence

& Analytics, Broadcast, Higher Ed Communication

Biography: Hi there! My name is Kameron Williams and I graduated

from Mississippi State University in May 2016 with my BA in

Communication with emphases in Public Relations and Broadcast. I

am a music lover from Grenada, Mississippi with a passion for

performance, outreach, and intercultural studies. I originally attended

Holmes Community College in Goodman, Mississippi before

transferring to Mississippi State. While at Holmes, I was a Journalism major finding my footing while

juggling being a cheerleader and active in every music program possible. Upon transferring to

Mississippi State, I decided to focus on both Broadcast and Public Relations after realizing how to

apply my passions for performance and community outreach. While at Mississippi State, I was an

anchor for the university’s news program as well as interning for MSU’s Social Science Research

Center's Media Collaborations Lab. I was also active within numerous LGBT and cultural

organizations on campus. This involvement enabled me to travel to different schools within the state

to discuss subjects such as gender expressions/norms and the racial divide. Ultimately, I look to snag

a communication role within higher education while still freely expressing myself and my experiences

through writing. My long-term goal is to be Director of Communication at an amazing University

where I can be instrumental in improving the university’s outreach efforts, especially during the

recruitment process. I tend to look occupied or busy, but I am extremely welcoming! I am not only

willing to tell people about my experiences, but always looking to learn new things! If you want to get

my attention and you have a minute, just ask me what I’ve been listening to and/or watching. I can’t

wait to meet you all, make new friends, and jumpstart an amazing school year!

Katie (Pierce) Drahos (Fall 2014 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Organizational Communication

Biography: I earned a double B.S. in Communication and Rhetorical Studies and

Management Organizational Leadership with an emphasis in Marketing and a

minor in Psychology from Illinois College in 2014. I then began pursuing my

M.A. in Communication at ISU in the fall of 2014. I am currently a Graduate

Teaching Assistant for the School of Communication and instruct a section of

Com 110. I also am the Speech Lab Graduate Coordinator for the 2015-2016

school year. I am a member of Rebound and the School of Communication’s

Graduate Student Association. In my free time, I like to sweat out my stress at the Y, partake in a

glass of wine or two, and scour Pinterest for all things wedding related.

Kiah Wilson (Fall 2017 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Public Relations, Organizational Communication, Social Media,

Rhetorical Criticism

Biography: Hi! My name is Kiah Wilson and I graduated from Illinois State

University in May of 2017 with a B.S. in Public Relations. I loved my experience

at ISU so much that I decided to stick around to pursue a Master’s degree! I am

originally from Moline, IL, a small town right on the Mississippi river, near the

border of Iowa. During my time as an undergrad, I cheered for the ISU

Competitive Cheerleading team for four years, served on the ISU Competitive

Cheer executive board, interned at YWCA McLean County, interned at Heartland Community

College, volunteered at WishBone Canine Rescue and worked as a sales associate at T.J. Maxx. I am

extremely interested in Public Relations and learning more about the best ways to build lasting,

mutually beneficial relationships internally and externally, as well as how the way we choose to

communicate impacts those relationships. I also enjoy learning the best methods to reach different

audiences as technology changes. After completing this graduate program, I hope to move to Chicago

and work for a PR agency downtown. Outside of school I enjoy travelling, shopping, cooking,

watching Netflix and spoiling my dog. I’m excited for this new chapter and look forward to meeting

you all!

Krista Bilow (Fall 2017 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Social Media Influence & Analytics, Public

Relations, Marketing Communications, Branding Crisis

Management

Biography: I graduated from Illinois State University with a B.S.

in Public Relations in May 2017. The School of Communication at

Illinois State made such an impact on me, I knew I wanted to

further my education here. During my undergrad, I was extremely

involved in PRSSA and served as president my junior year.

Throughout my undergrad I had some great opportunities interning in the Bloomington-Normal

community. My work with Special Olympics Illinois and COUNTRY Financial fueled my passion to

give back to the community I live and work in. After my time with those incredible organizations, I

started working for the ISU Career Center where I was able to pursue my passion for social media and

analytics. When I’m not behind my desk, I am out enjoying nature, watching the Cubs (win), traveling

to new cities with my boyfriend, and finding new music to jam out to! I can’t wait to see what is in

store for me next as I continue to work with the ISU Career Center as the Marketing and

Communication Graduate Assistant!

Lavender Ntaoti (Fall 2017 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Publication, ICT support, Research, Project

Management, Community Development, Sports

Biography: Lavender Ntaoti is a passionate Maasai, Kenyan lady

with strong christian values and standards. She hails from the

Maasai community which is known to have a beautiful culture. She

holds a honorary degree in Information Science, Publishing and

media from Moi University. She believes she has the power get

things done through hard work, efficiency, and Communication.

She is a professional editor, trained in writing for publications.

Leslie Laursen (Fall 2017 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Rhetoric, Interpersonal Communication

Biography: I am originally from a fairly small farm town in Wisconsin where I

graduated from the University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh with my B.S. in

Communication Studies. During my undergraduate years my interests particularly

fell within rhetoric, argument/debate, political, and interpersonal communication.

Outside of my required communication courses, I tried to take as many political

science and history classes as my schedule would allow each semester. During my

final year at UWO I worked on and submitted a rhetorical analysis to the

university’s undergraduate research journal. This process helped to aid in sparking my interest to

further my education and attend graduate school in hopes of one day becoming a professor at a

university. If I’m not studying, you’ll most likely find me geeking out over some book I’ve recently

read or want to read, ranting about various sports topics, cheering for any Pittsburgh team, or

jamming out at a concert. I am stoked to be continuing my education at ISU and look forward to this

new experience.

Logan Sean Spence (Fall 2017 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Political Rhetoric, Marxist Rhetoric, Narrative

Rhetoric, Myth and Mythology, Rhetoric in Popular Culture (e.g.,

Video Games, Films, and Theme Parks)

Biography: After obtaining my bachelor’s degree in

Communication at Marshall University, I decided to progress my

academic career and earn my master’s degree at Illinois State

University. Prior to my first year of grad school, I was adamant to

utilize all forms of rhetorical frameworks within my academic

career. However, after completing my first year of grad school, I have focused my research fields and

methods to prevent myself from becoming too broad in scope. I mainly conduct rhetorical critiques

and research in communicative texts to understand how the rhetor’s rhetoric functions within the text

and how it affects those that experience the text, intentional or otherwise. I mainly conduct rhetorical

critiques within the framework of the narrative paradigm, Marxism (and Neo-Marxism), and myth

and mythology to hopefully deconstruct the rhetoric within the text. I also have a heightened interest

in the rhetoric of politics, more specifically the rhetoric of political campaigning, the rhetoric of

policies and laws, and mythologies of political icons and ideologies. For me, understanding rhetoric

within texts allows us to not only have intriguing discussions about communicative practices and

behaviors, but also allows us to become better equipped to identify and push back against problematic

and hateful rhetoric from dangerous individuals and groups (ideologically and/or physically). My goal

is to not only complete my master’s program here, at Illinois State University, but also obtain my

doctoral degree in rhetorical research to hopefully begin my career as a university professor.

Maddison Jansen (Fall 2017 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Political Rhetoric, Health Communication, Crisis

Communication

Biography: Greetings! I’m Maddison Jansen of the bustling metropolis

known as Lynnville, Iowa. When I finished high school in 2012, I went to the

University of Northern Iowa and got my BA in public relations. I didn’t

realize until my senior year of undergrad what I wanted to do, which was

slightly inconvenient to say the least. That was when I started my

undergraduate thesis project about the Ebola crisis of 2014 and learned more

about health crisis management, preventative care, and remote health systems. I competed in

collegiate speech at Northern Iowa, and I’m jazzed to work with ISU forensics during my time here as

well. I took a gap year to work a joe job at a gun parts warehouse, save up some money, and upgrade

my vehicle; this summer and last, I worked the Harvard Debate Council’s summer workshop. If I get

my way, I’ll use my master’s in a job with Planned Parenthood on crisis response teams re: the

HIV/AIDS emergency in Indiana and other rural Midwestern states. In my wildest dreams, I’d like to

work for the World Health Organization or Doctors Without Borders providing healthcare to refugees

and other displaced peoples. I wasn’t sure a master’s degree was in my future, because I have a

problem with the neoliberal echo chamber that renders much of academia almost useless to the

layperson. My thesis project included a paper as well as a service element where I collected used

medicine bottles to donate to doctor’s offices in developing countries; I intend to incorporate service

work like that into as much of my study as possible. In the meantime, I like to drink lots of coffee (my

doctor uses the word “troublesome”), listen to current events podcasts, watch documentaries, and read

presidential autobiographies. I love traveling, too; I did summer mini-semesters at the University of

Stellenbosch in Cape Town, South Africa, and the American Studies Institute at the University of

Rennes in France; speech gave me lots of opportunities to travel in the States, too, something for

which I’m so grateful. I couldn’t be more excited to be a Redbird!

Madison Stoneman (Fall 2017 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Intercultural Communication, Interpersonal Communication,

Organizational Communication, Marketing Communication

Biography: Hi everyone! I graduated from Augustana College in May 2017

with a BA in Communication Studies and a minor in Graphic Design. During

my time as an undergrad I played on the Varsity Woman's Lacrosse team

making it to the sweet sixteen two years in a row! After an injury I had to stop

playing but I continued to be a manager for the team and later on became a

manager for the Augustana's Football team. My junior year I spent 5 and a

half months in Hong Kong, an experience I will never forget. Being able to submerge yourself in

other people's cultures is something you cannot learn from a textbook. I have a great passion for

traveling and seeing what else is out there besides the American values/traditions. I look forward to

attend ISU and further my education!

Matthew Gilmore (Fall 2015 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Health Communication, Political

Communication

Biography: I graduated from the University of Central

Missouri in May of 2015 with a B.S. in Political Science.

Prior to completing my degree, I worked for

Representative McCann-Beatty in the Missouri House of

Representatives and took numerous courses in biomedical,

cellular, and molecular biology which is where I became

particularly interested in Health Communications. With that said, I am somewhat torn between

focusing on either specifically Political Communication or Health Communication. Throughout high

school and college I competed in Speech and Debate, and I am looking forward to working with the

Speech and Debate team here at Illinois State. Outside of debate, I enjoy spending much of my time

setting food on fire (cooking), throwing elbows (basketball), and hearing the sweet sound of a purring

engine (Mario Kart 64). I also find myself traveling quite frequently. I’ve spent roughly three weeks

in Scotland, two in England, two in Ireland, and three in Slovenia in the last two years. I plan to

continue my travels by studying abroad during the summer while I complete my Masters. After

graduating, I hope to either work the U.S. State Department as a Foreign Service Officer or pursue my

Ph.D.

Maureen Maquiddang (Fall 2017 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Public Relations, International Studies, Documentary

Production, Digital Media, Communication Theory

Biography: I graduated with a degree of AB Major in Mass Communication at

Far Eastern University in Manila, Philippines. I’m a practitioner for more than

seven years now. I started my career as a researcher in a national broadcasting

network – ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation. After a year and a half, I was

promoted as a segment/episode producer. It felt like I was living the dream I had

since I was a kid in front of the television. It led me to interesting, unique and far-

flung places and meet people with stories that touched my life. One of the stories I will never forget

was the story of students who are living on the top of the mountain, who must cross steep slopes and

two rivers just to go to school every day. My crew and I were hardly catching our breathe while

filming the story and we were so amazed by the kids smiling and excited to go to school despite the

hurdles on the road. The experience made us feel grateful and content for everything we have. It is

very moving to see people being happy with having little to almost nothing. These experiences led me

to realize what I want to do next. After five years in television, I shifted to public relations. I worked

for Philippine Business for Social Progress, a business-led non-profit organization and Alsons Power

Group, a Mindanao-based independent power producer. From merely filming and presenting a story,

my job now involves formulating and executing strategic communication plans that adhere to an

organization’s goals. This career shift forced me to consider not only what I’m presenting, but how I

present it to grasp the attention of as many people as possible. Like in television, the target audience is

the most important consideration in crafting messages and telling stories about the organization’s

business and corporate social responsibility. I believe media is the single most important institution to

our global society. Media is the dialogue that cultivates democracy and furthers the progress of our

very species. In an increasingly panicked, desperate, and misinformed world, principled media is

needed more than ever to educate the public so they are equipped to respond to the modern world’s

mounting challenges.

Nicholas Raes (Spring 2017 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Intercultural Communication, Organizational Communication,

Rhetorical Criticism, Mediated Communication

Biography: Hello! My name is Nicholas Raes, but I go by Nick. I graduated

from Monmouth College in 2014 with my BA in Communications. Since then, I

have been working in retail management and personnel. As I was the first college

attendee in my family, I had no idea that graduate studies were an option for me

until my last semester in my undergraduate career. After working for a year in my

field, I decided that it was time to continue my education in subjects I was truly

passionate about, namely intercultural and organizational communication. I held several positions of

leadership at Monmouth College which included my favorite position as the coordinator for Member

Development for my fraternity. My interest in intercultural communication stems from my study

abroad experience in Akita, Japan in the autumn of 2013. Having met many interesting people from

around the world there, I wanted to study how I could further bridge the communicative gap between

disparate cultures in an increasingly globalized world. My hobbies and interests include studying and

enjoying comedy of all types, particularly absurdist and surrealist humor as well as satire. My favorite

examples of these include the works of author Kurt Vonnegut and the productions of Tim Heidecker

and Eric Wareheim. I’m looking forward to working with you!

Nichole Hughes-Liss (Fall 2017 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Political Communication, Intercultural Communication,

Social Media, Rhetoric

Biography: As an ISU alumnus, the choice to come back to Fell for my

master’s was a no-brainer. I got my undergraduate degrees in Communication

and Political Science. I almost dropped my Communication degree, actually,

but after studying abroad, I became passionate about the intersection of

communication and politics. So here I am, dedicating two more years of my

life to research on the subject! Since I graduated, I have been working at

Hobby Lobby, anxiously waiting for the Cardinals to return to their former glory and wishing Josiah

Bartlet was back in office (along with my spirit animal, Toby Ziegler). I got married to my wonderful

husband Sam, and we adopted two fur babies. In my free time, I enjoy watching Netflix and perusing

the Twittersphere. Other hobbies include traveling, eating Mexican food, and listening to The West

Wing Weekly podcast. My family is of the utmost importance to me, especially my hero, my twin

sister, who inspired me to come back to ISU in search of a higher degree (she wrote that). When I

graduate, I plan on working at a university or in local government. Essentially, when I grow up I want

to be Leslie Knope because we both love waffles, feminism, and Joe Biden. I look forward to meeting

you all!

Paige Phelps (Fall 2017 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Leadership and Organizational Communication,

Social Media

Biography: Hi! I graduated from Augustana College (Rock Island,

IL) in May of 2017 with a BA in Communication Studies, minors

in Music and Graphic Design, and a certificate in Nonprofit

Leadership Development. I'd love to serve in a collegiate setting in

some capacity once my time at ISU comes to an end. I've grown

very fond of the college environment, and I'd love to be able to

inspire students the same way I have been inspired. Outside of the classroom you can probably find

me at the rec, at Target, playing the cello, watching NCIS, organizing something, or eating queso and

guacamole from Tony's Tacos!

Patrick Maca (Fall 2015 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Environmental Conservation/Sustainability,

Diversity Advocacy, Intercultural Communication, Health &

Wellness, Happiness

Biography: Who am I? Does “I” exist?...Sorry, perhaps I have

taken one too many classes with Professor Cochece here at Illinois

State University. Anyhow I graduated this past Spring from ISU

with a degree in Communication Studies: Organization and

Leadership. The learning and growth that I have experienced in the

last two years in the Communication Department at ISU has been completely enlightening. Without

the dedication, understanding, and genuine kindness displayed by the professors and other faculty in

the Communication department, this incredible opportunity to be a GTA would not have been

possible. I waged an internal battle on whether I wanted to head straight to graduate school after

completing my undergraduate coursework. My decision came down to the awesome learning

environment and professors at ISU. I get to hang out and learn with some of the smartest, coolest

people I have ever met for two more years. I would be a bigger fool than I already am to turn that

down. I want to enjoy life, have fun, form and be confident in my own beliefs, and do cool things.

Being at ISU for the next few years seems to fit those criteria.

Pete Pucek (Fall 2017 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Communication Education, Documentaries, Nonverbal

Communication, Rhetorical Methods, Training & Development

Biography: I received my bachelors degree in 2017, at 43-years of age. I spent

over 15 years in the video industry; shooting, editing, producing and directing

everything from commercials to music videos; and training videos to corporate

events. I also spent over 20 years in the audio industry as a wedding DJ, emcee,

event coordinator, recording producer/director and live sound operator. Returning

to school as a non-traditional student showed me there are correct and incorrect

ways to communicate a message in the classroom. Effectively communicating the correct message in

an online classroom, is a challenge; and a task that inspires me. The opportunity to take my academic

interests and turn them into educational tools to help the next generation of student; is not only an

honor but a privilege. In my free time I enjoy the martial-arts, scenario paintball and video editing.

Prince Adu Gyamfi (Fall 2017 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Public Relations, Organizational Communication, Health

Communication

Biography: My name is Prince Adu Gyamfi from Ghana. I hail from a

town called Adansi Dompoase in the Ashanti Region, but I was born and

has lived my entire life in Kumasi, the second capital city of Ghana. I am a

Christian and fellowship at the Church of Pentecost. I am very conscious

about my actions, therefore, my life is guided by certain principles which

include honesty, integrity, respect for all, courage, tolerance, punctuality,

hard work, perseverance and excellence. I often use my leisure time to watch football matches, listen

to good music and political discourse. I spend a lot of my time indoors to reflect on issues and how to

become a better person every day. I hold a bachelor’s degree in Communication from Christian

Service University College, Ghana. At undergraduate studies, I majored in Print Journalism to

improve my writing and creative skills. My main career goals are to teach and research into the field

of Communication as well as to provide both professional and leadership training for workers and

students. At Illinois State University, my research interests are in Public Relations, Organizational and

Health Communication. I would like to work with Dr. Lance Lippert and Dr. Pete M. Smudde

because their research interests are aligned with mine. After my master’s program, I also plan to

pursue a PhD program in Communication to further explore research areas such as Risk, Health and

Environmental Communication.

Rachel Laing (Fall 2017 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Public Relations, Social Media Influence & Analytics,

Writing/Editing

Biography: Hey everyone! My name is Rachel Laing, and I graduated in

2016 from Manchester University with a major in English Writing and a

minor in Business. Now I’m here in the Comm department because I like to

be good at everything! My interest areas are PR and the more linguistic

side of Comm, but don’t ask me what my post-grad plans are because I’m

not sure yet! I unironically love astrology (don’t @ me), Cardi B, flowers,

writing, and a very particular shade of pink. You can usually find me hanging out with Alyssa (who I

live with) and Frankie (who is basically our third roommate), doing work in the office, or napping.

I’m looking forward to getting to know all of you and having another great year in the program!

Rebecca Bromann (Spring 2018 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Public Relations, Event Planning, Political

Communications, Crisis Communication

Biography: Hello! My name is Rebecca (or Becca), and I just

graduated from Illinois State University with a B.S in Public

Relations in December 2017. I always knew that I wanted to attend

ISU when I came to preview in 2014, and I am so excited to

continue my journey here. During my undergrad career, I minored

in Political Science and Legal Studies. When I started the Legal

Studies program at ISU I knew that I wanted to further my legal education and receive my Juris

Doctor Degree. With my Public Relations background and my future J.D. Degree, I intend on

working for a Public Relations agency or corporation providing legal counsel on Intellectual Property

and Trademark laws. During my sophomore and junior year, I was a part of the marketing team for

ISU’s school newspaper, The Vidette. I also held a legal internship at the McLean County State’s

Attorney’s Office during my senior year. I am also an alumna of Delta Delta Delta, a service and

social sorority. Over the course of the next two years, I will be working for University Housing as the

Student Conduct Graduate Assistant. I am so excited for this opportunity, and I cannot wait to see

where it takes me. Outside of the classroom and office, I enjoy cheering on the Cubs, watching

Netflix, and hanging out with friends! I love to get to know new people, so please feel free to stop me

and say hello! Roll Birds!

Stephanie Robertson (Fall 2016 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Public Relations, Marketing

Communications

Biography: Currently, I am the Assistant Director of

Marketing and Assessment for University Housing

Services at Illinois State University. I work on all aspects

of communication such as website management, social

media, blogs, design, mobile app, campaigns and so much

more. In addition, the assessment piece of my job allows

me to engage students on giving feedback both quantitatively and qualitatively. Previously, I was the

Marketing Coordinator for Four Seasons Health Club in Bloomington. In addition, I do consulting

work for several local businesses and some nationally providing insight on communication, public

relations, media relations, social media and design. Out of my undergraduate degree, I lived in St.

Louis gaining experience at two agencies, FleishmanHillard and Geile/Leon Marketing

Communications. I was fortunate enough to work with clients including Monsanto, AT&T, Boston

Market, St. Louis Science Center and several others. Prior to agency experience, I graduated with a

major in Public Relations and a minor in Sociology from Illinois State University in May, 2014. I

strongly believe in creating a career and lifestyle that I don’t need a vacation from – I enjoy doing

things that I am passionate about and enjoy putting my time and effort into. Outside of public

relations and communication, I am passionate about working out and spending time with my sweet

rescue dog. I love creative energy, strategic thinking and trying new things! I’m beyond excited to be

continuing my educational journey as a Redbird and to be part of the graduate school community.

Tanner Clark (Fall 2014 Cohort)

Interests: Rhetorical Analysis, History & Criticism, War Rhetoric

Biography: I graduated from the University of Montevallo in 2013 with a B.S.

in Communication Studies and two minors in Writing and Public Relations. At

the University of Montevallo I was President of the Golden Key Honour

Society, alumni liaison for my fraternity, and I also worked nights at the

Student Union building. I am currently a second year GTA at ISU and am

serving as the General Education Assistant for 2015/2016. My line of research

has examined the anti-war/neutrality rhetoric used by Charles Lindbergh near

the beginning of the Second World War. My thesis examines the historical, rhetorical, and mythical

elements surrounding the development of Lindbergh’s rhetoric throughout the months leading up to

American involvement in the war. When I am not teaching or studying I enjoy grilling out, watching

movies, and spending time with my girlfriend.

Tawny Ballard (Spring 2017 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Intercultural Communication, LGBTQ & Feminist

Studies, Rhetoric, Social Media, Social Change

Biography: I am currently a graduate assistant in University

College's Visor Center, the academic resource center on campus.

In this program, I mostly study intercultural communication and

rhetoric related to pop culture. As I finish up my final semester of

graduate school, I've also found an increasing interest in

interpersonal communication. In addition to my GA, I run a part

time wedding and portrait photography business, and am a youth director at Hope Church, an

inclusive and progressive United Methodist church. This past summer, I worked at YWCA McLean

County as a Marketing Intern, which was a great experience! I graduated in December 2015 with a

bachelors in Spiritual Formation. While there, I served on student government in several capacities,

was a residential assistant for three years, and spent my summers working with youth and college

students in various locations in the Midwest and New England. I love good whiskey, exploring new

cities, and my wife, Lindsey. When not working or studying, I'm probably posting way too many

pictures of my cats, at a concert, or redecorating my house.

Victoria Padilla (Spring 2018 Cohort)

Interest Areas: Interpersonal Communication, Organizational &

Leadership Communication, Public Relations, Social Media

Biography: Hello, my name is Victoria Padilla and I am very excited to

begin the Graduate Program in Communication at ISU! I graduated from

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) in 2012 with a

bachelor’s degree in English and a minor in Creative Writing. I’m

originally from Joliet but moved to Atlanta (about 20 miles south of

Bloomington/Normal) a little over three years ago. I work at Regional

Office of Education # 17 where I work with the 30 public districts and 15 private schools we serve on

Illinois School Code compliance, school calendars, school recognition and public relations/marketing

for our services and programs. I really enjoy working on our weekly Teacher Newsletter, Annual

Report and communications regarding upcoming training and development. My goal is to use my

Communications degree to improve the voice and reach of ROE # 17. I am a Member of

Bloomington-Normal Young Professionals through the McLean County Chamber of Commerce, I

serve on the Planning Commission in Atlanta and a volunteer at the Humane Society of Logan County

in Lincoln. In my free time you can find me hanging out with my husband, Josh, and our two dogs,

Roku and Bumi. I also enjoy running, reading, cooking and working on my photography skills.